NFL Honors: Myles Garrett and Jaxon Smith-Njigba Are Breaking Records and Winning Awards

Historic Achievements Highlighted at NFL Honors

The NFL Honors ceremony held on February 5, 2026, in San Francisco was a night to remember for Myles Garrett and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. They were celebrated as the NFL's Defensive and Offensive Players of the Year, respectively. Myles Garrett was the unanimous pick for the AP Defensive Player of the Year, marking his second such honor in a career that has redefined defensive excellence in the league.

Garrett set an astounding record by achieving 23 sacks in a single season, breaking the previous record of 22.5 held by legends T.J. Watt and Michael Strahan. His impressive performance included 60 total tackles, three forced fumbles, and a crucial sack against Joe Burrow in the final game of the season, leading the Cleveland Browns to a narrow victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, 20-18.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba Shines in First Super Bowl Journey

On the offensive side, Jaxon Smith-Njigba of the Seattle Seahawks had a standout year, securing the prestigious AP Offensive Player of the Year award. Smith-Njigba's breakout performance included 119 receptions for an NFL-leading 1,793 yards, and 10 touchdowns, solidifying his status as a top-tier wide receiver. With a Can-do spirit and relentless determination, he is poised for a stellar Super Bowl LV matchup against the New England Patriots.

The young receiver’s versatility and knack for big plays—averaging 14.3 yards per touch—fueled the Seahawks’ return to the Super Bowl this year. Under the leadership of quarterback Sam Darnold, the Seahawks scored the third-most points in the league, showcasing a dynamic offensive strategy. Smith-Njigba’s contributions were instrumental to the team's success.

A Look at Other Notable Winners

The night also honored other stellar performances across the league. Matthew Stafford, quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, clinched the AP Most Valuable Player title with a remarkable season of 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns. This closely contested MVP award had him edging out New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye by a narrow margin of only five points.

Other award winners included Carson Schwesinger of the Cleveland Browns for AP Defensive Rookie of the Year. Schwesinger’s impressive statistics included 156 tackles in his debut season, showing promise for a bright future in the league.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the NFL and Beyond

The achievements of Garrett and Smith-Njigba not only speak volumes about their individual talents but also underscore the evolving nature of the NFL as they prepare for the Super Bowl festivities. The acknowledgment of breakout stars adds excitement to what will be one of the most anticipated games of the season.

As fans tune in to watch the Super Bowl, they will witness an extraordinary matchup that reflects the leagues' emerging talents colliding on one of the sport’s biggest stages. The future appears bright for these athletes as they continue to push the boundaries of performance in their respective roles.

Conclusion: Celebrating the Best in Football

The NFL Honors night served not only as a celebration of individual talent but also as a glimpse into the league’s vibrant future. With players like Myles Garrett and Jaxon Smith-Njigba leading the charge, fans can anticipate more exciting football ahead. Their achievements remind us that in sports, dedication and hard work can forge greatness.

As the football world buzzes with anticipation for the Super Bowl, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the accomplishments showcased at the NFL Honors. For anyone following the latest breaking news or updates on the NFL, following these extraordinary athletes is a must!